The monsoon is not just rain and mud; it is also an ideal time for planting. The soil holds plenty of moisture in this season, so plants grow fast. Many kinds of vegetables can easily be grown on a rooftop, a balcony or even a small open space, and with a little care you can have a supply of fresh, chemical-free vegetables within a few months. Here are some vegetables suited to growing in pots in the rainy season.

Okra is one of the most popular vegetables for the monsoon garden. This fast-growing plant does not demand much care and can easily be grown in a medium or large pot. With regular watering and enough sun, it starts bearing within a few weeks. For new gardeners it is one of the easiest options.

Bitter gourd is always on the list of healthy vegetables. Its vines grow quickly in humid monsoon weather. To grow it in a balcony pot, build a small trellis for the vines to climb. Raising seedlings in cocopeat first, rather than sowing seed directly in the pot, gives a better crop.

Ridge gourd is another popular monsoon vegetable. With enough light and proper care it grows fast and bears for a long time. But water standing in the pot can rot the roots, so the pot must drain well. A trellis also improves the ridge gourd crop.

Aubergine can be grown in every season, but it grows especially well in the monsoon. One plant in a large pot or drum can give fruit for a long time. With regular organic fertiliser and protection from pests, a single plant can yield plenty of aubergines.

Green chilli, a kitchen essential, is very easy to grow in pots. Even a small balcony can hold a few pots of chilli plants. They need little space yet give a steady crop. In the monsoon, neem oil or an organic pesticide can be used to keep off fungus and insects.

Make use of the rainy season to set up a small vegetable garden on your balcony. It will satisfy a hobby and give your family a supply of safe, fresh vegetables.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.